If you’re considering a wine tour in Traverse City and want something a little more refined than the typical party bus experience, this NON BUS Sunday Funday Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour could be just what you’re after. It offers a relaxed, upscale way to enjoy the area’s best wineries, all while riding in the comfort of a luxury vehicle.

From what we’ve gathered, what really stands out about this tour is the chance to skip the loud, crowded bus scene and instead settle into a semi-private, VIP experience. The luxury GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade ensures you’re traveling in style, and the smaller group size lets you enjoy personalized attention from knowledgeable guides. One thing to keep in mind, though, is that this isn’t your typical party atmosphere — it’s all about savoring wine, scenery, and good company at a leisurely pace. This tour suits couples, small groups, or anyone who appreciates a more intimate, luxurious approach to wine tasting.

Two things we love about this experience are its focus on quality over quantity — visiting just four wineries means more time to really enjoy each stop — and the expertise of the guides, who are passionate wine lovers. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the price point, which is higher than what you’d pay for a standard bus tour, but in our view, the added comfort and exclusivity could be worth it.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, elegant, and well-organized way to explore Traverse City’s renowned wineries, especially if you prefer traveling in style and avoiding the typical large-group scene, this tour could be a fantastic fit.

Key Points

Luxury Transportation: Travel in a private GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade, avoiding the usual party bus scene.
Small Group Feel: Most groups are 6-7 people, ensuring personalized attention and a quieter vibe.
Expert Guides: Guides are wine enthusiasts who provide curated recommendations and background on each winery.
Exclusive Wineries: Visit four top wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, with options to customize your list.
Flexible Scheduling: Tours depart multiple times, including sunset options that add a different ambiance.
Additional Perks: Groups of six or more receive a complimentary bottle of wine, which adds value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What to Expect

This tour is designed to give you a laid-back yet upscale tasting day, focusing on quality, scenery, and personal interaction. Starting at the Hardy Street Parking Structure, you’ll be picked up in a sleek, air-conditioned luxury SUV — no old buses, no hassle. The pickup location is conveniently central, across from the Park Place Hotel, making it easy to join from downtown Traverse City.

Once onboard, the feeling is immediately different from the usual crowded tour. You’re in a semi-private vehicle, often with just your group, which means you can really relax and chat with your guides about wine, local spots, or whatever piques your interest. The guides are U of M or MSU grads, and many are passionate wine aficionados, so expect engaging commentary and personalized suggestions.

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Wineries You’ll Visit

The tour typically hits four wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula, including popular stops like Hawthorne Vineyards, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, Brys Estates, Chateau Chantal, Chateau Grand Traverse, Bonobo Winery, and Old Mission Distillers. The specific wineries depend on availability, weather, and your preferences, but the guides are happy to accommodate special requests if you have favorites.

Each winery offers something unique:

Hawthorne Vineyards is known for its bubbly, including the famous Soiree Champagne Methode’, and their Dry Red Flight.
Bowers Harbor provides crisp, refreshing Pinot Secco (bubbly Pinot Grigio), perfect for warm days.
Chateau Chantal offers customized flights, with options like Riesling or Malbec.
Brys Estates is famed for its Froze’, a frozen wine treat.
Bonobo Winery features BDX wines, Cab Franc, and the Brut Cuvee.

Expect to sample a variety of wines, from sparkling to dry reds, with optional food pairings available at some stops (though food and wine flights are extra). The tour is relaxed enough to just enjoy the scenery, sip some wine, and take photos of the stunning vineyard views.

The Unique Touches

What makes this tour special is the emphasis on personalized service. The guides are knowledgeable and genuinely interested in helping you discover wines you’ll love. Many reviews mention how guides went out of their way to tailor the experience. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guides listened to what we liked and adjusted our stops accordingly,” which truly enhances the experience.

The seasonal lemonade lavender slushy at Bonobo is a delightful bonus if you’re visiting in summer — a refreshing treat that adds a fun, local twist to the day.

Comfort and Convenience

Traveling in a luxury SUV means you’ll stay comfortable no matter the weather, with climate control and plush seating. The small group size makes the experience feel exclusive without being pretentious. Plus, since there’s no loud music or party bus noise, conversations flow naturally, and the scenery takes center stage.

Pickup and drop-off are included, with options to be dropped at downtown hotels or other local spots, making logistics easy. No need to worry about driving or parking — just relax and enjoy the ride.

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The Price: Is It Worth It?

At $89 per person, this tour is priced higher than standard bus tours, but that cost reflects the added luxury, personalized attention, and smaller group size. You’re paying for a quality experience, with knowledgeable guides and the comfort of a private SUV.

Considering the value, you’re getting an intimate, curated day that emphasizes quality over quantity—visiting fewer wineries but really enjoying each stop. Plus, the inclusion of a free bottle of wine for groups of six or more adds a nice touch, and the flexibility to customize your winery list means you’re not just on a predefined route.

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What You Get

Exclusive, semi-private transportation
Guided visits to four top wineries
Tasting experiences (additional costs may apply for glasses or bottles)
Boutique, personalized service
Opportunity to relax, take photos, and enjoy the scenery

If you’re someone who appreciates a more upscale and relaxed approach to wine tasting, the investment feels justified.

The Real Deal: Who is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone who values comfort and quality. If you prefer a more intimate setting with personalized attention over the hustle of larger bus tours, you’ll find this more satisfying. It’s especially suited for those celebrating special occasions, like birthdays or anniversaries, or travelers who want to enjoy the scenery and wine at a leisurely pace.

However, if you’re looking for a lively, party-oriented atmosphere or are on a strict budget, this might not be the best fit. The focus here isn’t on boisterous fun but on savoring wine, scenery, and good conversation.

The Sum Up

The NON BUS Sunday Funday Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour offers a wonderfully relaxed, luxurious way to explore some of Michigan’s top wineries. The combination of stylish transportation, knowledgeable guides, and carefully selected wineries makes it stand out from standard wine tours.

It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy the region’s wines without the noise and crowds, and who value a tailored experience that feels both special and comfortable. While the price is on the higher side, the quality of the experience, the scenic beauty, and the personalized service make it a worthwhile splurge for many wine lovers.

If you’re seeking a more refined, intimate way to spend a Sunday soaking in Traverse City’s charm and flavors, this tour could be just what you need.

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NON BUS Sunday Funday Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if I’m traveling alone?
Yes, solo travelers are welcome. The small-group format means you’ll likely share the vehicle with just a few other people, creating a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Can I customize which wineries I visit?
Guides are happy to accommodate special requests if they’re on your wish list, but the specific wineries visited depend on availability, weather, and season.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 4.5 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers private transportation, expert guides, and tastings at four wineries. Food, additional wine bottles, and glasses cost extra.

Are the vehicles climate-controlled?
Yes, the luxury SUVs are air-conditioned, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather.

Is the tour suitable for families or children?
This tour is designed for adults; it’s not suitable for pregnant women or children.

Where do I go to start the tour?
Pickup is at Hardy Street Parking Structure in downtown Traverse City, with options to be dropped off at local hotels or other specified locations.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Can I join a sunset or afternoon tour instead?
Yes, they offer multiple departure times, including sunset tours that often include an optional distillery stop.

If you’re after a wine tour that combines comfort, style, and a touch of exclusivity, this experience is well worth considering. It’s a relaxed, high-quality way to savor Traverse City’s best wines in a setting that feels both special and personal.